For a complete list of programs and special events, call your local library or go to mmpl.org/youth/summer_reading.htm

News from Titcomb’s Bookshop

Titcomb’s presents author Dawn Tripp, signing copies of her book Game of Secrets, 4-5 p.m. July 22.

Elaine and Karin Tammi will sign copies of Scallops: A New England Coastal Cookbook, noon to 2 p.m. July 31.

Titcomb’s is located at 432 Route 6A, East Sandwich. More event info at 508-888-2331.

Books in Brewster

The Brewster Ladies’ Library annual summer book sale continues through Aug. 20. The sale is open 7 days a week, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the library, 1822 Main St. More info at 508-896-3913.

Author Luncheon Series

Author and chef Molly Birnbaum, author of Season to Taste: How I Lost My Sense of Smell and Found My Way, will be the featured speaker at an Author’s Luncheon beginning at 11:30 a.m. July 28 at the Wequassett Inn Resort, 2173 Route 28, Harwich. Sponsored by Where the Sidewalk Ends bookstore in Chatham. $50. Reservations can be made via email to chathamsidewalk@yahoo.com.

Living With Alzheimer's

Local author Sonja Brewer will discuss and sign her book, Surviving Normal, a true account of the challenges of living with Alzheimer’s disease, 2-4 p.m. July 28 at The Love of the Breed Store, 4019 Main St., Brewster. More info at Beacon Hospice, 508-778-1622.

Author’s Friday Special

The 7th annual Author’s Friday Series at the Dennis Public Library will be transformed into a one-time fundraiser from 4 to 6 p.m. July 29 under a festive tent on the grounds of the Sea View, 76 Chase Ave., Dennisport. Event features bestselling author Lisa Genova (Still Alice) and her latest novel, Left Neglected. There’ll be appetizers, cash bar, book signing and a drawing for a 1988 painting by Frederick Lynch, one of Maine’s premier artists. $20 advance, $25 at the door, with proceeds going to Friends of the DPL. More information: 508-760-6219.

Drop some scallops on the barbie

Elaine and Karin Tammi will sign copies of their book Scallops: A New England Coastal Cookbook, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. July 30 at Harvest of Barnstable, 89 Willow St., Yarmouthport.

On Aug. 3 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at A Gathering Place Bookstore, 1525 Rte. 6A (near Rte. 134) in East Dennis, authors Edward and Yolanda Lodi will speak, answer questions and sign copies of their books, Moonlight Harvest: Haunted Cranberry Bogs of Cape Cod and Plymouth County (Edward) and Make It Better With Cranberries Cookbook 2011 (Yolanda). The bookstore’s phone number is 508-385-5273.

Ongoing at village libraries

• Centerville - The library’s book group meets at 7 p.m. on the third Wednesday of each month. (www.centervillelibrary.com)

• Cotuit – The Book Club meets every third Thursday, 7 to 8:30 p.m. (www.cotuitlibrary.org)

The Book Discussion Group meets the third Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m. (www.mmpl.org)

The Centerville Public Library, 585 Main St., has a series of 20 English language instructional DVDs that teach English as a Second Language. Each ESL segment is packaged individually and is appropriate for those of any language background. These can be checked out for a week at a time on a CLAMS card. For more information, call 508-790-6220.

On-line language learning

Mango Languages, an online language learning system, is available 24/7 to anyone with a Hyannis Library CLAMS card. There are 22 foreign language courses and 14 ESL courses. Log on to www.hyannislibrary.org and click “Mango.” The system is an easy new way to learn to speak another language. Questions: call 508-775-2280.

ART

BARNSTABLE

ARTS-post is open for biz

The Arts Foundation of Cape Cod has announced that their Main Street, Hyannis “Summer ARTS-post” at 394 Main St. (former Guertin Bros. location) is open. This summer headquarters for the Cape’s arts and cultural community will be a central location for art displays, concert info, tickets, merchandise and information on the Cape’s cultural venues. The Arts Foundation may be reached at 508-362-0066.

Art’s on the walls

The “Art on Loan” program, featuring local artists’ work displayed on meeting room walls in Barnstable Town Hall, is featuring the work of Carl Lopes through Aug. 26. He’s a studio artist and the visual arts director for Barnstable High School, as well as adjunct instructor of art education at UMass Dartmouth508-862-4767.

Art shanties rev up

The Art Shanties at Hyannis Harbor, featuring a blend of new and returning artists, are open seven days a week, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. through Sept. 5, and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sept. 6-Oct. 2, with jugglers, musicians and magicians providing walk-around entertainment several nights a week.

The Association offers summer adult and children’s art classes in drawing, painting, photography, sculpture and video. For complete information on all events and class offerings, visit the Web site, www.capecodartassoc.org or call 508-362-2909.

Hyannis Harbor Arts Center at the Guyer Barn

That’s the new name for the exhibition space on South Street in Hyannis. Here you can see the work of new summer artist-in-residence, Julien Havard, an artist, designer and former Broadway dresser who has an art style that’s original and unmistakable.

Sarah Holl Artspace and artist work studios at 50 Pearl St. feature portraiture, jewelry, fiber and figurative art. Studios are open Saturdays and most weekdays, and always by appointment.

The Hyannis Harbor Arts Center at the Guyer Barn also offers classes and workshops for kids and adults throughout the season. For information, call 508-566-2880.

News from the Cahoon

• “Mighty Ships and Their Journeys to Beyond,” a look at ships that sail for business and for pleasure, through July 24. • Talk by artist Anna Carringer about works in the exhibition from the Martha’s Vineyard Museum, 11 a.m. July 19.

• In The Little Gallery: through Sept. 11, works by the South Cape Artists group. Gallery talk: 11 a.m. Aug. 2.

• July 26-Sept. 18: Art exhibit: “So What’s in a Bog?” – a look at how artists have portrayed bogs, and their significance in our landscape. Opening reception 5:30-7 p.m. July 28.

The Cahoon Museum of American Art is located at 4676 Falmouth Road (Rte. 28), Cotuit. Hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday; 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday. For more information call 508-428-7581 or visit www.cahoonmuseum.org.

Cotuit Center for the Arts

CCftA holds two new gallery exhibits - “Photo Graphics: The Evolving Art of Digital Photography” and “Outermost Embrace,” on display through Aug. 8.

CCftA, 3480 Route 6A, Barnstable, is open 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, and noon to 4 p.m. Sunday. The Center holds summer classes in music, visual and performing arts for students of all ages. Detailed listings at www.ArtsOnTheCape.org. Call 508-362-2909 for more info.

Tao Water Art Gallery

The Tao Gallery presents works by George Xiong and Duo Ling Huang, through July 30.

The Tao Gallery is located at 1989 Route 6A, West Barnstable. 508-375-0428.

The gallery’s Provincetown location, at 352 Commercial St., can be reached at 508-487-8880.

Cape Cod Conservatory

The Cape Cod Conservatory of Music and Arts, with campuses at 2235 Iyannough Road, West Barnstable, and 60 Highfield Drive, Falmouth, holds classes for children and adults in art, photography, dance and music. Call for information at 508-362-2772 (Barnstable) or 508-540-0611 (Falmouth), or visit www.capecodconservatory.org.

Old Selectmen’s Building

The Old Selectmen’s Artist Gallery, 2311 Meetinghouse Way (Route 149), West Barnstable, exhibits new artists each week during the season:

A portion of proceeds from sales goes to maintain the historic Old Selectmen’s building. Gallery hours are Weds-Sat. 10-4 and Sun. noon-4. 508-362-5504.

Camera Club at Art Association

The club meets monthly on the second and fourth Thursday. Educational pre-meetings are held at 6:30 p.m. Photographers of all levels are invited.

The Association is located at 3480 Route 6A in Barnstable. Call 508-362-2909 or go to www.capecodartassoc.org.

CAPEWIDE

Addison Art Gallery

The Addison Art Gallery, 43 Route 28, Orleans, is hosting events inspired by the National Seashore’s 50th anniversary. • July 23: opening reception (5:30 to 7:30 p.m.) for a juried show with more than 50 works by 30 artists, many from Cape Cod, celebrating the National Seashore’s beauty and resilience. • July 24: “Images and Remembrances of the National Seashore,” discussion by Rick Fleury and naturalist Dennis Murley, 5:30-7:30 p.m. • July 26: “Life in a Dune Shack,” presentation by writer and photographer Stephanie Foster, 5:30-7:30 p.m. • July 30: Benefit for Friends of the National Seashore – Learn how they assist the Park and contribute to their endeavor to refurbish Old Harbor, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. 508-335-6200.

artSTRAND

The artSTRAND Gallery, 494 Commercial St., Provincetown, is featuring works by the gallery’s many guest artists. The gallery is open 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily.

Lyman-Eyer Gallery

Intriguing images by artist Jeannie Motherwell are on exhibit from July 22-Aug. 3 at the Lyman-Eyer Gallery, 432 Commercial St., Provincetown, with an opening reception 7 p.m. July 22. The Gallery is open daily from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. 508-487-3937.

At the Dennis Library

Works of photography and watercolors by local artist Muriel Thomas are on display throughout the month of July at the Dennis Library, 5 Hall St., Dennisport. 508-760-6219.

Cape Cup Gallery

“American Graffiti: The Boxcar Series,” is the subject of an exhibit by local photographer Ron Snider at Cape Cup Gallery, 54 Main St., Orleans, on display through July 31. More information at 508-247-9669.

Truro Fine Art Studio

The Studio is showing “The Unexpected,” a mixed media show now on display, featuring four artists with unique points of view – Maxine Schaffer and Sarah Anne Johnson are new to the studio, while Karen Kemp and Christopher Jagmin are returning artists. The Truro Fine Art Studio at Jobi Pottery is at 3 Depot Road. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday. 508-349-2303.

Bowersock Gallery

“commonality: BOLD dynamics,” with works in oils and encaustic by Jayne Adams and Kim Bernard, is on exhibit through July 26 at the Bowersock.

“Shared Differences,” works by New England artists Darlou Gams and Todd Bonita, on display through July 27.

The Bowersock Gallery is located at 373 Commercial St., Provincetown Information at 508-487-4994 or visit www.bowersockgallery.com.

Brewster Ladies’ Library

The Library presents a special exhibit during the month of July, featuring the work of printmaker Leslie Kramer, including prints inspired by nature, stone structures and letterforms of many alphabets. 508-896-3913.

At Preservation Hall

“Woodcarvings by Johnathan Kendall,” an exhibition at Wellfleet Preservation Hall on Main St., honors this itinerant artist of landmark doors, including those at the Hall, carved in 1976. Talk by curator Mark Gabriele at 7 p.m. Aug. 23. More information at 508-349-1800, or www.wellfleetpreservationhall.org.

Gallery 31

Gallery 31 Fine Art, 34 Main Street Square, Route 6A, Orleans, hosts a summer exhibit from July 23-29 highlighting paintings of the beaches and dunes of the Cape and Islands, with a reception from 5 to 7 p.m. July 23. Enjoy refreshments and see works by nine local artists. More info at 508-648-8780 or www.Gallery31capecod.com.

Woodruff’s Art Center

Woodruff’s is hosting their 2011 “Lunar Art Reception Series,” with new art unveiled each month under the full moon. Receptions: 6-8 p.m., with an opportunity to meet the artists and enjoy refreshments and conversation. Next up – the Sturgeon Moon, Aug. 13. Woodruff’s Art Center, located in Mashpee Commons, also hosts ongoing art exhibits and classes.

For more information call 508-477-5767 or visit www.woodruffsartcenter.com.

Art on the Lawn

Art is on display and for sale on the lawn during Sunday outdoor shows at Cape Cod Cooperative Bank and the Bank of America, Route 6A, Yarmouthport, through Sept. 4, sponsored by the Yarmouth Art Guild.

Brewster Monday Painters

An art show and sale is held every Monday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. through Aug. 29, on the lawn in front of the Brewster Council on Aging, Route 6A. Rain cancels. Portion of sales benefits the Friends of Brewster Elders. 508-896-1051

Eastwind Gallery

The Eastwind Gallery, 34 Main St., Orleans, is open Monday–Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 508-240-2133 or visit www.eastwindgallery.com.

Rice/Polak Gallery

• July 22-Aug. 4: Works by Lisbeth Firmin and Steven Skollar, with artists’ reception 7 p.m. July 22.

The Rice/Polak Gallery, 430 Commercial St., Provincetown, is open from noon to 5 p.m. daily. For more information call 508-487-1052 or visit www.ricepolakgallery.com.

Kitchen Dreams

The Sandwich Glass Museum, 129 Main St., will host an exhibit of wall relief sculptures of glass and aluminum by acclaimed glass muralist Ricky Bernstein, July 28 through Oct. 30. A lecture and opening reception will be 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. July 28. More about the artist at www.rickybernstein.com.

At Ladies’ Library

An exhibition of art by abstract painter Linda Grom is on display from Aug. 2-27 at the Brewster Ladies’ Library, 1822 Main St., with opening reception: 4:30 p.m. Aug. 6. 508-896-3913.

Bayberry Quilters show

The Bayberry Quilters of Cape Cod will hold their 30th annual Quilt Show, “Sew Many Pearls,” Aug. 4 to 6, with hours from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday and Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, all at Cape Cod Regional Technical High School, Route 124, Harwich. More than 200 quilts will be on display, plus vendors and lectures, quilt appraisals, handcrafted boutique items and a raffle for a beautiful quilt. $7. www.bayberryquiltersofcapecod.com.

Creative Arts Center

The Creative Arts Center, 154 Crowell Road, Chatham, is open 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. For info on all programs, call 508-945-3583 or visit www.capecodcreativearts.org.

More information at 508-945-3583.

Rowley Gallery

The Rowley Gallery is located at 84 Route 6A, Orleans. Open 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday through Sunday. 508-255-3690.

Three Fish & a Ram

Three Fish & a Ram’s Community Arts Center, 36 Bates Road, Mashpee Commons North, invites you to their Open Mic Nights at 7 p.m. on the 4th Saturday of the month—hosting musicians, poets, performers and audience members. Next up: 7-9:30 p.m. July 23, with host David Jackson. $5. Info: www.threefishandaram.com.

A special Message Circle and lecture with Marlene will be held at 7 p.m. July 29, and a songwriting workshop will take place from 3-5 p.m. July 31.

The Fresh Paint Gallery, 169 Route 6A, Yarmouthport, is open for the season. Six award-winning artists and new exhibitors present an exciting collection of recent works in a variety of mediums. The gallery is open Mon.-Sat. from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sun. noon to 5. Info: 508-428-5478, or www.freshpaintgalleryonline.com.

Glass without borders

“Bending Boundaries,” an exhibit of works by Benton Jones, is on display at Millstone Sculpture Gallery, Route 6A in Brewster.

Studio Gallery

The Studio Gallery, featuring original paintings by Robert K. Roark and the photographic art of Anita Winstanley, is open 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and Sunday by appointment “or chance.” Also on display are sculptures by Michale Alfano and Vincent Russo.

Roark also accepts a limited number of private one-on-one art students, at levels from beginner to advanced. Call for more information.

Through Aug. 7: “Perspectives on the Provincetown Art Colony” highlights the cultural heritage of that town, in conjunction with the book of the same name by Deborah Forman.

Aug. 20: CCMA’s Annual Art Auction – Bid on works by outstanding regional artists in silent and live auctions, and enjoy cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and dinner.

Through Sept.11: “Painting the Changing Light,” works by the Cape Cod Plain Air Painters.

Through Sept. 25: On display, a site-specific installation, “The Great Silence,” a sculpture created by Lorrie Fredette.

The museum announces the launch of Blue Star Museums, in collaboration with the National Endowment for the Arts and Blue Star Families, offering free admission to all active duty military personnel and their families through Labor Day 2011.

The museum offers a variety of summer classes and workshops for children and adults. For a complete schedule, visit www.ccmoa.org.

The Cape Cod Museum of Art, 60 Hope Lane, Route 6A in Dennis, is open Wednesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. through April. Info at 508-385-4477 or visit www.ccmoa.org.

Through Aug. 14: “Abstract Expressionism: The Formative Years (1946-48),” works by John Grillo.

Through Aug. 28: “Amy Stillman: Beneath the Surface.”

June through August: Wednesday evening seminars on computers, with tech guru David Cox. Includes programs on social networking, creating websites, iPhoto and photo stitching, e-marketing, iPad use, and group consultations for individuals and small businesses. Take one – or all. For full course descriptions, visit www.paam.org or call 508-487-1750.

Art workshops: Sign up for one of more than 30 affordable art workshops in a variety of mediums. PAAM offers a Master Class series, which allows students to study with artists in the areas for which they are known. This series runs throughout the year.

For more information on upcoming classes and workshops, call 508-487-1750 or visit www.paam.org.

Museum hours are Thursday through Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. and by appointment. Admission is $5 for non-members. Call 508-487-1750 or go to www.paam.org.

CLUBS

Cape Area Pilots’ Association

Aviation enthusiasts and pilots are invited to the monthly meetings of CAPA, held on the first Wednesday of each month, at the Cape Cod Community College library (lower level) in West Barnstable, beginning at 6:30 p.m.

Cape Cod Community Media Center

The Cape Cod Screenwriters Group meets every Tuesday evening from 6 to 9 at the Cape Cod Community Media Center, 307 White’s Path, South Yarmouth. The group is open to writers with new or completed scripts, aspiring writers, writers looking to adapt a book, and those working in television and video. For more info, visit www.capemedia.org/.

The Media Center offers computer classes for individuals, organizations and businesses. For more information call 508-542-2013 or e-mail jmljake@capecod.net.

Barnstable Newcomers

The Barnstable Newcomers Club thanks all who have actively participated in monthly meetings over the winter and spring. BNC is on summer hiatus and will resume meetings in September. The club is open to residents of Barnstable’s seven villages, and meets on the third Wednesday of most months, No limits to length of membership – everyone’s a newcomer forever. Refreshments and social gathering are followed by a featured speaker. For more info call 508-771-9654 or visit www.barnstablenewcomers.com.

BARS monthly meeting

The Barnstable Association for Recreational Shellfishing (BARS) holds monthly meetings at 7 p.m. the 1st Tuesday of each month in the West Barnstable Community Building, Rte. 149, cor. Lombard Avenue. Meetings are open to the public. www.shellfishing.org.

Cape & Islands Gay & Straight Youth Alliance (CIGSYA)

CIGSYA holds drop-in hours from 4-6:30 p.m. Wednesdays for old and new members ages 22 and under.

CIGSYA House, 56 Barnstable Road in Hyannis offers support and more for those 22 and under in the community. Call 508-778-7744 or go to www.CIGSYA.org.

The Cape & Islands Gay & Straight Youth Alliance has a dance room, cyber center, library, TV room and game room as well as several support groups and other activities.

The Barnstable American Legion Post 206 holds a meeting the second Monday of each month at the VFW Building, 467 Route 132 in Hyannis. Members and newcomers are always welcome. For information, call adjutant Joe Fallon at 508-760-1937.

Cape Cod Miniature Society

The Cape Cod Miniature Society holds meetings the third Wednesday of every month at 6:30 p.m. at the West Barnstable Community Center on Route 149. New members are welcome. Call 508-896-7295.

Cape Cod Fencing Club

The Cape Cod Fencers meets Tuesday and Thursday at 6:30 p.m. at 49 John Maki Road in West Barnstable. The group is a registered member of the New England Division of the US Fencing Association. E-mail capefencer@aol.com or visit www.capecodfencingclub.org.

Cape Cod Bird Club

Meetings are held the second Monday of every month at 7:30 p.m. at the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History, 869 Route 6A in Brewster. Meetings are free and open to the public.

Cape Cod Hospital Auxiliary

Members of the Cape Cod Hospital Auxiliary Barnstable Branch meet the second Thursday of the month at St. Mary’s Church in Barnstable Village at 10:30 a.m. All are welcome.

Barnstable-Yarmouth Lions Club

This organization of men and women raises funds for eye research and other community services. Meetings are held at Barbyann’s Restaurant in Hyannis on the first and third Tuesdays of the month at 6:30 p.m. Call 508-534-6099.

National Railway Historical Society, Cape Cod Chapter

The non-profit group meets from November through April at the West Barnstable Train Station on Route 149; its museum in the station is open May through October on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. For more information, go to www.capecodnrhs.org/

Needlepointers in Dennis

The Cape Cod Chapter of the American Needlepoint Guild meets the second Monday of the month at Carleton Hall in Dennis at 9:30 a.m. Call 508-778-0947.

Cape Cod Gay Men’s Chorus

Members of the chorus meet each Tuesday at 7 p.m. to rehearse at the Cape Cod and Island Gay/Straight Youth Alliance House, 56 Barnstable Road, Hyannis. New singers and musicians always welcome.

Astronomical Society meets at D-Y

All are invited to meetings of the Cape Cod Astronomical Society at 7:30 p.m. on the first Thursday of the month at Dennis-Yarmouth Regional High School, Station Ave., South Yarmouth. Visit www.ccas.ws/Events.

Paranormal Research Society

The Cape & Islands Paranormal Research Society will hold one open meeting a month, usually on the final Friday, from 7 to 9 p.m. at Cape Cod Community College’s Lecture Hall B. Call 508-771-2725 or go to www.caiprs.com. All are welcome.

Cape Cod Motorcycle Club

Members of the Cape Cod Motorcycle Club meet at 7:30 p.m. the first and third Tuesday of the month. Motorcycles 250cc and above are welcome. The club is American Motorcycle Association-sanctioned. Call 508-775-3793 for meeting location.

Veterans For Peace

The Corporal Jeffrey M. Lucey Chapter 041 of Veterans For Peace meets the second Wednesday of each month in Hyannis. Call 508-775-4045.

Veterans of Foreign Wars

The VFW Hall holds meetings for its members each month. Call 508-771-1323.

Cape Cod Civil War Round Table

Members of the Cape Cod Civil War Round Table meet the third Monday of each month from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Yarmouth Senior Center, 528 Forest Road in South Yarmouth. Dues are $25 per year and can be paid at the first meeting or mailed to Ed Skoler, 481 Buck Island Road #15E, West Yarmouth, MA, 02673.

FILM

Woods Hole Film Festival

The 20th annual Woods Hole Film Festival lights up multiple screens July 30 through Aug. 6 with more than 100 movies of all varieties. Schedules are available at www.woodsholefilmfestival.org. To order tickets and passes, go to www.ticketweb.com.

Annual NE Video Contest

The Cape Cod Community Media Center in South Yarmouth announces that the 14th Annual New England Region Video Contest has issued a call for entries. All contest information and entry forms are online at http://ne.alliancecm.org/entryform. Entry deadline is Aug. 12.

A.C. Moore Arts & Crafts in Southwind Plaza, Hyannis, is offering ongoing free make & take projects for kids and parents to share during summer “downtime.” Upcoming: July 27: New Image Group Button Art; Aug. 3: Royal Brush Color-by-Number Minis. All programs are 3 to 5 p.m.

Kids’ are cookin’

Ring Bros. Marketplace offers hands-on summer Kids’ Cooking Classes each Weds. from 2-4 p.m. through August. Topics in July – scrumptious gourmet cupcakes. Class topics in August will posted at www.ringbrosmarketplace.com in mid-July. $10 per class. For more info, visit the website. 508-394-2244.

The Photography Center is hosting a Summer Photography Day Camp weekly in August, Monday thru Friday 9 to 11 a.m. $125 per child. Camps for kids 8-12 and teens. Pre-register at 508-362-2909 or www.PhotographyCenterofCapeCod.org.

Teddy Bear Picnic

Children and their teddy bears or favorite friends are invited to a Teddy Bear Picnic in the back yard of Hyannis Library, 410 Main St., from 3 to 4:30 p.m. Aug. 3. A storyteller will be there and there’ll be crafts to make, plus cookies and lemonade. $10 per family includes admission for bears. 508-775-2280.

Programs at Green Briar

A host of fun activities in the world of nature is available at the Thornton W. Burgess Green Briar Nature Center, 6 Discovery Hill Road, East Sandwich.

• Critter Capers every Friday, 10:30 a.m.

• Live Animal Story Time every Saturday, 10:30 a.m.

Call 508-888-6870 for info on all upcoming activities.

Toddler time in Brewster

Story Hour at the Brewster Ladies’ Library, 1822 Main St., for children ages 2 and up, is held each Wednesday at 10:30 a.m., with songs, stories and crafts. 508-896-3913.

Art classes for kids

Three Fish & A Ram Community Arts Center, 36 Bates Road, north side of Mashpee Commons, has a host of classes for kids throughout the year. Call 508-477-2788 for details, or visit www.threefishandaram.com.

Little steps for little ones

Dance Designs in Hyannis offers a dance program for ages 3 to 6 on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Call 508-771-2344 or go to www.dancedesignshyannis.com.

Barnes & Noble

Tuesday toddler story time is at 10 a.m. at the store at the Cape Cod Mall in Hyannis, with preschool story time Wednesdays at 10 a.m. On Fridays there is a special story time for school-age children at 7 p.m. Call 508-862-6310.

Cotuit Library

Story times at the Cotuit Library are Tuesdays at 10:30 a.m. and Wednesdays at 2:15 p.m. Preschoolers are welcome for stories, songs and crafts.

Dennis Public Library

The Dennis Public Library in Dennisport holds pre-school story and craft time every Thursday at 10:30 a.m. On Wednesdays at 1 p.m. it’s Toddler Story and Play Time.

Programs at the Boys & Girls Club

Programs at the club include classes, cooking, games, music and more. The club is open Monday through Friday from 2 to 6 p.m. Teen nights are held every weeknight from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday night the clubhouse is open from 6 to 10 p.m. for teens. Call 508-477-8845 or go to www.BoysGirlsClubCapeCod.org. Membership is $25 annually.

MUSIC

Groovy Afternoon to you, too

Classic rock favorites are front and center as the rock sensation Groovy Afternoon brings its sounds to the Cape Cod area throughout July in a series of concerts. Upcoming: July 23 – Tommy Doyle’s, 334 Main St., 10 p.m.; July 28 – House of Buds, 959 Bearse’s Way, Hyannis, 9 p.m. ($5 cover).

Swing band concert

The Bart Weisman Klezmer Swing Band will perform at 7 p.m. July 23 at the Cape Cod Synagogue, 145 Winter St., Hyannis, in a concert of klezmer, jazz and swing music. $18, under age 13 free. Tickets at 508-775-2988.

This free entertainment series at Aselton Park in Hyannis continues on Thursday, Friday & Sunday evenings, 6-7:30 p.m. all summer long. Also, on Thursdays, through Aug. 11: Jay and Kristen Stewart are the Seaside Clowns, with slapstick comedy, circus skills and laughter for all ages.

The final concerts in the Meeting House Chamber Music Festival series will be July 25 (Church of the Holy Spirit, 204 Monument Road, Orleans), and July 26 (Cotuit Center for the Arts, 1404 Falmouth Road), both at 8 p.m. Featured performers are Katie Lansdale, violin, and Donald Enos, piano. $20, under age 18, free. 508-896-3344.

Cape Cod Chamber Music Festival 2011

The 32nd season of the Chamber Music Festival kicks off at 6 p.m. July 28 during a gala evening with cocktails and buffet dinner, with music by Nicholas Kitchen of the Borromeo String Quartet, all at the Cape Cod Museum of Art, 60 Hope Lane, Dennis. $125.

The Festival itself is under way from Aug. 1-19 at the following venues:

$35 general admission, $15 students w/ ID, free to 18 and under. Tickets to 3 or more events: $33 per ticket. More information at 508-247-9400 or www.capecodchambermusic.org.

Balkan Brass

The Balkan Brass Band will perform in concert at 7 p.m. July 28 at the Yarmouth New Church Preservation Foundation, 266 Route 6A, Yarmouthport. $10 suggested donation. Refreshments will be served. More information at 508-362-3832.

Mashpee Pops concert

Mashpee Night at the Pops will be held at Mashpee Commons on July 30, with gates opening at 5 p.m., concert at 7 p.m., this year featuring the Brockton Symphony Orchestra, Jubilate Chorale and Colum Cille Pipes and Drums. General admission is free, reserved seating from $25 up. 508-539-2345 or www.mashpeepops.com.

Scottish Pipe Band

The Highland Light Scottish Pipe Band will perform a special program with the traditional music and full regalia of the Great Highland Bagpipes and Drums, at a Summer Sunday Concert at Pilgrim Congregational Church, UCC, 533 Route 28, Harwichport, at 7 p.m. July 31. Free-will offering benefits the Young Musicians Fund on Cape Cod. 508-432-1668.

MBL concert

The Tokyo String Quartet returns to the Marine Biological Laboratory for a concert with Haochen Zhang, winner of the 2009 Van Cliburn International Piano Competition, to be held at 7 p.m. July 31 at MBL’s Lillie Auditorium, 7 MBL St., Woods Hole. A champagne dessert reception follows. $35 concert (general admission), at the door until sold out. $75 for reception (sold separately), until 5 p.m. July 22. 508-289-7423 for reservations. Proceeds support MBL programs.

The TD Bank Pops by the Sea concert takes the bandstand on the Hyannis village green at 5 p.m. Aug. 7, with the Boston Pops Orchestra led by conductor Robert Bernhardt plus celebrity guest conductors Peter and Bobby Farrelly, with special guest stars Kelli O’Hara and Jason Danieley performing a Cole Porter tribute. Pre-concert show at 1:15 p.m. features the Bart Weisman Klezmer Swing Group, Funktapuss and the Lydia Warren Band.

On Fridays, check out the Boarding House Surf Shop at 354 Main, for Steel Band Rhythm Night with Pan-Expressions on alternating weeks from 6 to 8 p.m.

And on Wednesdays, stroll down the Walkway to the Sea to the bandstand on the village green for free concerts by the Barnstable Town Band at 7 p.m.

CCftA Art Barn Songwriter Series

Cotuit Center for the Arts and Trespass Music are partnering to present the Art Barn Songwriter Series, on the 2nd and 4th Monday of each month, 7:30 p.m. Doors open 7 p.m.

At CCftA, 4404 Falmouth Road. Each performance features two professionally touring songwriters playing 45-minute sets. A chance to hear the area’s up-and-coming artists. $5 suggested donation at the door. Info on upcoming shows: 508-428-0669.

Summer harmonies

The all-female a cappella group Cape Harmony will perform at four locations through Aug. 12:

Enjoy live jazz in the Tap Room with Paul Good & Fred Boyle, beginning at 6 p.m. Thursdays at the Regatta, 4631 Falmouth Road, Cotuit. 508-428-5715.

Five Eighty Six Bistro and Bar

The 586 offers live entertainment, from jazz to piano to contemporary rock, Fridays and Saturdays beginning at 9:30 p.m. They are located at 586 Main St., Hyannis. Complete entertainment listing at www.fiveeightysixbistro.com or call 508-778-6515.

Island Merchant

The Island Merchant, 302 Main St., Hyannis, provides no-cover entertainment. For a full schedule, go to www.Theislandmerchant.com. The Merchant’s Jazz Jam with Bart Weisman is on the third Sunday of every month from 4 to 7 p.m. 508-771-1337.

Black Cat

The Black Cat, 165 Ocean St., Hyannis, offers live entertainment throughout the year, from 7 to 10 p.m. Thursdays; 7:30 p.m. to midnight Fridays; and 8 p.m. to midnight Saturdays, in the lounge. The restaurant is open 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily. 508-778-1233.

British Beer Company

There’s something going on every night at the British Beer Company, 412 Main St., Hyannis. Open 7 days. For more info call 508-771-1776.

The Roadhouse Cafe, 488 South St. in Hyannis, features live entertainment on Fridays and Saturdays from 7 to 10 p.m. in the piano bar. On Monday nights, enjoy live jazz from 7 to 10 p.m. with the Cape’s finest jazz musicians. Call 508-775-2386 or go to www.roadhousecafe.com.

Music in Barnstable Village

The Barnstable Restaurant and Tavern, 3176 Route 6A in Barnstable Village offers Friday night entertainment from 5-7 p.m. on the patio, through Sept. 16. 508-362-2355 or visit www.barnstablerestaurant.com.

Siena Italian Grill and Bar

Siena Italian Grill and Bar is located at 17 Steeple Street in Mashpee Commons. For more info call 508-477-5929.

Contra dances in Cotuit

There’s a Contra dance on the second Saturday of each month at Freedom Hall, 976 Main St., Cotuit, featuring live music. Beginners and singles welcome; soft-soled shoes are recommended. Dances begin at 8 p.m. $6. 508-420-2188.

BSFT presents The Reluctant Dragon, written by John Sullivan with Jim Hill, a family event with the final performance at 7 p.m. July 22, at Barnstable High School Performing Arts Center, 744 West Main St., Hyannis. $10. 508-771-6246. www.bhsdc.org.

Ladies Only Psychic Party

Jon Stetson, “America’s Master Mentalist,” will host a new series this summer at the Cape Codder Resort, 1225 Iyannough Road, Hyannis. The “Ladies Only Psychic Party” runs every Monday through Aug. 29 at 7 p.m. in the resort’s Grill Room. This unique show combines clairvoyance, humor and tips on developing your own psychic abilities. $25. www.capecodderresort.com.

Provincetown Theater

The Provincetown Theater, 238 Bradford St., presents the Glam-Rock musical Hedwig and the Angry Inch, through July 30, with performances at 8 p.m. July 16-17, 21-23 and 28-30. $30. 508-487-9793 or visit www.provincetowntheater.org.

• Sherlock Holmes, in the great tradition of Victorian music hall, by Arthur Conan Doyle and William Gillette, runs through July 23 at 8 p.m., with a 2 p.m. matinee July 21.

• Dames at Sea, based on the 1930s Hollywood musical, is onstage July 28-Aug. 6, with performances at 8 p.m. July 28, 29, 30 and Aug. 1-6, with 2 p.m. matinee Aug. 4.

The theatre is located at 776 Main St., Chatham. $28, $23 matinee. 508-945-1589; www.monomoytheatre.org.

Marstons Mills library to produce play

Tuesdays, July 26 and Aug. 2, from 6 to 8 p.m.: Broadway and television actress Nancy Reardon and former children’s librarian Heidi Jacobe will meet with teens ages 11-15 at the Marstons Mills Public Library, 2160 Main St., to produce the radio play Bremen Town Musicians, for recording and a performance on Aug. 2. Participating teens must attend 4 of the 5 sessions. Pre-register at 508-428-5175.

Cape Cod Theatre Project

Staged readings of the best new works and the best new playwrights: July 28, 29, 30: Pookie Goes Granading, by J.C. Lee. Performances are 8 p.m. at Falmouth Academy, 7 Highfield Drive, Falmouth. Suggested donation of $20. 508-457-4242 or www.capecodtheatreproject.org.

Paula’s in Provincetown

“An Evening With Paula Poundstone” will bring that lady’s “razor-sharp wit and spontaneity” to the UU Meeting House, 236 Commercial St., Provincetown for just one night—8:30 p.m. July 22. $35/$45 VIP seating, $40 general admission at the door. Tickets at 866-811-4111 or at www.theatermania.com. Benefit for Independence House.

Harwich Junior Theatre

Back by popular demand – Always … Patsy Cline, starring Laura Cappello as Patsy, a musical tribute to the famous country diva, with performances Fri. and Sat. eves through July 23 and Aug. 12-27, and Friday through Sunday, Sept. 2, 3 and 4, all 8 p.m. Ticket info: 508-432-2002.

Provincetown Counter Productions studio at 237 Commercial St., Provincetown, presents the new comedy Gaylebrity, through Aug. 29, with performances at 7 and 9:30 p.m. Sundays in July, and Sundays and Mondays in August.

Counter Productions is staging the musical revue Mama and Her Boys through Aug. 20, with performances Saturday at 7 and 9:30 p.m., at the Counter Productions Studio. Box Office: 508-413-1000 or visit www.counter-productions.org.

Cape Cod Opera

CC Opera presents a varied program of opera favorites in Summer Scenes: Love Betrayal and Death With a Few Pirates Tossed In! on July 29 (8 p.m.), Mashpee High School Auditorium, 150-A Old Barnstable Road; July 31 (3 p.m.), D-Y Regional High School, 210 Station Ave., South Yarmouth; and Aug. 1 (8 p.m.), Provincetown Town Hall, 260 Commercial St. $20 general admission, $25 preferred seating. For tickets call 508-246-0039 or visit www.capecodopera.org.

Shakespeare’s The Winter’s Tale, the “perfect summer comedy,” performs through Aug. 13. Performances Weds. through Fri. at 7:30 p.m. The Center is located at Highlands Center at Cape Cod National Seashore, 29 Old Dewline Road, North Truro.

The Winter’s Tale for Children: a one-hour adaptation, will be performed at 5 p.m. Thursdays, July 28 and Aug. 4. For show information or reservations, call 866-811-4111 or visit www.paymet.org

At Wellfleet Preservation Hall

Jimmy Tingle takes the stage on Wednesday evenings throughout July and August, presenting “Jimmy Tingle for President: The Funniest Campaign in History,” with shows at 8 p.m. at Wellfleet Preservation Hall on Main Street. $25 advance, $30 day of show. 617-612-5493 or www.jimmytingle.com.

Cape Cod Center for the Arts Theater for Children continues its summer performances on the stage of the Cape Playhouse, Route 6A, Dennis Village. July 22: AbraKIDabra! with Mike Bent. July 28: Cinderella; July 29: The Princess Show. Aug. 4: “Magic and Much More!” Starring magician and juggler Scott Jameson. Aug. 5: The Ghost Net, starring the Grumbling Gryphons. All shows are 9:30 and 11:30 a.m. $11, at the Box Office: 508-385-3911.

Intro to Comedy Improv for kids

On Thursdays through Aug. 11, 9-10 a.m., Wellfleet Preservation Hall on Main Street will offer “Happy Crab Comedy Classes” for kids ages 6-10, as an introduction to comedy improv, a stage performance without a script or prior prep. $15 per class, drop-ins welcome. For more info, visit www.happycrabcomedy.com.

HJT summer classes

Harwich Junior Theatre offers an array of creative activities and classes for the summer, including acting, tech, playwriting, on-camera acting, musicals, comedy and more, and including some one-day workshops. Don’t miss Friday Specials, 9-12 at the theatre. For details, visit www.hjtcapecod.org.

AUDITIONS

Woods Hole Theater Company

WHTC will hold auditions for Noel Coward’s comedy Blithe Spirit at 4 p.m. July 24 at the Woods Hole Community Hall, 68 Water St., directed by Lisa Smith. Roles for 2 men 40 to 55 years old, 4 women 25-55, one with a good cockney accent. Performance dates are Oct. 13-29.

"The Barnstable Association of Recreational Shellfishing (BARS) is offering FREE "Learn to Shellfish" classes on July 23 at noon, at Bridge Street Landing in Osterville. A shellfishing license (obtained from the Marine & Environmental Affairs department on Phinney's Lane, Centerville) is required if you wish to keep your quahogs. Rakes and/or baskets are available to borrow. For more info, call Jon Gorecki at (508) 775-6234.

Fairy Garden Festival

Hyannis Country Garden holds its first Fairy Garden Festival on July 23 and 24. The winning creators of spectacular Fairy Houses will receive a $25 gift certificate to Country Garden, presented in age categories (under 12, 12-20, 20 and above). Fairy gardens are miniature landscapes created in the landscape or in containers, and most fairy houses are created out of natural materials such as sticks, bark, stones and moss. Advance registration required: 508-775-8703.

All aboard!

The Cape Cod Central Railroad Family Supper Train pulls out of the West Barnstable station on Thursday and Saturday nights this summer. For trip prices and reservations, call 508-771-3800, x 291.

Barnstable Senior Center

Upcoming events at the BSC include:

• Wednesdays through Aug. 24: 6-session series on Aspects of Death & Dying, led by Barbara Nordstrom, Hospice & Palliative Care. Wednesdays at 10 a.m. Free.

• July 26: Workshop on Cape Light Compact, and how you can save money on your energy bills, 1 p.m.

• July 27: “Considerations When Planning Home Remodeling,” led by members of the Community Assistance Council, 10:30 a.m.

Ongoing classes in African Dance are held every Monday from 7 to 8:30 p.m. in Barnstable Community Horace Mann Charter Public School gym, 165 Bearse’s Way (next to Hyannis Youth & Community Center). $12 each class. Call 508-274-8626.

Village Crafters Summer Craft Fair

A series of Cape Cod craft fairs to benefit local libraries, hosted by the non-profit Village Crafters:

Benefit by the bay – The Wellfleet Montessori Preschool will host a fundraiser from 6-9 p.m. Aug. 4 at Chequessett Yacht Club Boathouse, 680 Chequessett Neck Road, Wellfleet. Festivities include raffle, silent auction, cash bar and hors d’oeuvres and live music by Randy & the Oak Trees with Sarah Swain. $25. Proceeds benefit the preschool scholarship fun and program sustainability.

ROAR for Duffy Health Center

Motorcyclists, led by Duffy Health Center’s Mobile Health Clinic and members of the Barnstable Police Dept. will enjoy an 18-mile ride on Cape Cod on Aug. 7 to benefit the Health Center. Riders on a Road (ROAR) welcomes participants in the ride, which begins at 11 a.m. with registration at 9:30 a.m. at the Mashpee Council on Aging, 26 Frank E. Hicks Drive. For information, to make a donation or register to ride, visit www.duffyhealthcenter.org or call Elyse DeGroot at 508-771-7517, x 104.

BHS 25th reunion

The Barnstable High School Class of 1986 is returning to the 1980s from Aug. 12 to 14 at their 25th reunion, to be held at various venues from the high school to the Cape Codder Resort to the beach. For information, email barnstablehighclassof1986@comcast.net or call 803-201-7723.

• Cape Abilities Consignment & Thrift Shop is located at 3239 Main St., Barnstable Village, next to the fire station. Open year-round, the hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Saturday. 508-362-3417.

Waiting for homes

The New England Society for Abandoned Animals is looking for loving homes for a passel of cats and kittens. All are healthy and up to date on shots and vaccinations. Interested pet parents are invited to call 508-776-5767 and ask for Suzanne Trasavage. Or visit the shelter at 89 South Main St., Unit A1, Centerville, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Mon.-Fri., or 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekends.

CAPEWIDE

It’s County Fair time!

The Barnstable County Fair runs through July 23, at the fairgrounds on Route 151 in East Falmouth. Upcoming: Paul Revere & the Raiders, July 22; Crystal Bowersox, July 23, both 7:30 p.m. $10 age 13+; $8 seniors and those with current military ID; $2 ages 6-12; age 5 and under free with paying adult. For complete listing of events, entertainment lineup and fair-related info, visit www.BarnstableCountyFair.org.

Cultural Survival

The Cultural Survival Bazaar, an international festival of native arts and culture, will be held from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. July 23 and 24 a Peg Noonan Park, Main St. at Hamlin Ave., Falmouth. Shop for native art, clothing, jewelry, décor and more, and enjoy free musical performances, presentations, storytelling, demos and ethnic cuisine – this year’s food features Wampanoag Native American cuisine.

Speedy freebie

Residents of the Cape villages of Hyannis and Wellfleet will receive free admission on July 23 at the Hometown Heroes Series of races at the Seekonk Speedway. IDs with addresses are required. The speedway’s website is www.seekonkspeedway.com.

A gala evening from 6 to 9 p.m. July 28 at the Wychmere Beach Club, sponsored by the Harwich Conservation Trust, will feature wine and hors d’oeuvres and a talk by Dr. Harm de Bliz, the renowned political geographer. $75 supports HCT’s many preservation projects. Reserve at www.HarwichConservationTrust.org or call 508-432-3997.

Summer fun at Heritage

Family Fun Fridays – each Friday through Aug. 12, includes special performers at 11 a.m. on the outdoor stage. On July 29: Kids’ concert by Vanessa Trien and the Jumping Monkeys. Aug. 5: Kids’ rock n roll dance band concert with Uncle Moe.

Visit Heritage Museums & Gardens, 67 Grove St., Sandwich, this summer, where there are activities for the whole family.

Indoor Fleas

Find vintage treasures and wares at the weekly indoor flea market held every Sunday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 1336 Phinney’s Lane, Hyannis, next to Cape Cod Beer. Call 774-238-9546.

MBL offers tours

The Marine Biological Laboratory in Woods Hole will offer free public tours of the laboratory on weekdays at 1 and 2 p.m. through Aug. 26. Tours include a video presentation, a visit to the MBL’s Marine Resources Center and walking tour of the MBL campus. Advance reservations strongly recommended: 508-289-7623.

Fly Fishing 101, 201

Orvis stores are hosting FREE fly fishing lessons at all Orvis locations through July. Learn casting basics and how to build a rod outfit and tie basic knots. Take a short outing with experts on a local river and try your luck at casting and, maybe, catching. More details at the Cape’s Orvis store from manager Bruce Zeller at Fishing the Cape Harwich, Route 137 Harwich Commons, East Harwich, 508-432-1200.

The Center is located at 528 Forest Road, West Yarmouth. Call for more info or to register for programs: 508-394-7606.

Thrift Shops are open

• The Unitarian Universalist Thrift Shop has merchandise at bargain prices! Hours: Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. UU Meeting House is located at intersection of Queen Anne and Crowell roads, near Chatham Village Market. Info at 508-945-2075.

• The West Yarmouth Congregational Church Thrift Shop, 383 Main St., is open from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday. 508-790-3299.

• The Cape Cod Cancer Consignment Exchange, 133 Main St., Route 6A, Yarmouthport, is open for the season. Hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mon-Sat., and consignments of collectibles, jewelry and antiques are welcome. Call 508-362-3416.

• Thriftique: The VNA of Cape Cod runs this busy thrift shop at 1074 Route 28, South Yarmouth. Hours are 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tues-Sat. Volunteers are needed, especially on Saturday! Call 508-957-7709 for more information on helping out.

The Massachusetts Veterans’ Service Officers Association reminds veterans and their spouses and widows that supplementary financial assistance is available through local Veterans Services offices. Contact the MVSOA at 800-827-1000, or visit www.mvsoa.us/.

MUSEUMS

BARNSTABLE

Barnstable Historical Society

The Historical Society presents an exhibit of Ted and Judy Harmon’s collection of carved birds and decoys, through July 23 at the W.F. Jones House, Barnstable Village, with many to be auctioned off on July 24-25 in Hyannis.

The Barnstable Historical Society is located at 3087 Main St., West Barnstable, just across from Sturgis Library. Reassembled and revised exhibits are dedicated to the town’s seafarers, home life, children and craftsmanship, along with other local themes. There are summer walking tours 1-3 p.m. Wednesdays and Saturdays, rain or shine. The museum is open 1 to 4 p.m. Tuesday - Saturday through October. 508-362-2982 or visit www.barnstablehistoricalsociety.org.

Cape Cod Baseball League Hall of Fame

On hand are displays celebrating the Cape League’s 100-year history, along with memorabilia from all 10 franchises and honors for past accomplishments by players and coaches. Located on the lower level of the JFK Museum, 397 Main St., Hyannis. Open 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday-Saturday, noon-4 p.m. Sunday. $5, $3 seniors, $2.50 children. 508-790-3077 or visit www.capecodbaseball.org.

Centerville Historical Museum

The Centerville Historical Museum’s permanent collection includes replicas of a Colonial kitchen and a 19th-century schoolroom, as well as exhibits of Centerville sea captains, antique toys and games, Victorian accessories and fans, Sandwich glass and more.

Special current exhibits are Centerville Capers - 100 years of ladies’ and gentlemen’s accessories; Morning and Night, gowns from Empire to Edwardian eras; The Civil War Remembered, a commemoration; and Chinese Snuff Bottles, 40 rare examples from the Qing Dynasty.

The museum, at 513 Main St., is open from the end of April through Dec. 10, noon to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. $6, $5 seniors and students, free to kids under 8. For information call 508-775-0331 or www.centervillehistoricalmuseum.org.

The Coast Guard Heritage Museum at the Trayser, 3353 Main St. (Route 6A), Barnstable, is open 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday - Saturday, May through October. New exhibits include a Lighthouse Service Room and an extensive collection of aircraft and ship models, paintings and photographs. $5, free to ages 10 and under. Call 508-362-8251 or visit www.coastguardheritaagemuseum.org for info on special programs and volunteer opportunities.

Historical Society of Santuit and Cotuit Museum

The Dottridge Homestead and Museum is located at 1148 Main St., Cotuit, and is open in season every Saturday and Sunday from 1 to 4 p.m. The newly refurbished museum offers a look at how life was lived in the 19th century, right down to the kitchen garden, while the Fire Museum houses the oldest mechanical fire engine on Cape Cod. The museum is under the aegis of the Historical Society of Santuit & Cotuit. For information, call 508-428-0461 or visit www.cotuithistoricalsociety.org.

Safe Boating & Sailing Mini-Camp – Ages 12-15, learn to sail, and get a taste of history on the 1886 Crosby Catboat replica Sarah – July 18-22 and July 25-29, Mon-Fri 9 a.m. to noon. Call 508-775-1723.

“Making Waves: Maritime Ventures on Cape Cod,” a new primary exhibit celebrating more than 400 years of the Cape and Islands’ maritime history and its “ocean stewards,” is now open at the Cape Cod Maritime Museum, 135 South St., Hyannis.

Just opened is a celebratory exhibit of the m/v Prudence, in service to Hy-Line Cruises for half of the vessel’s 100 years of existence, now through Sept. 25.

The museum hosts lectures, classes and other activities for all ages. Hours are Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sundays from noon to 4 p.m. Admission is $5 for adults, $4 seniors and students, free for children under 7. Go to www.capecodmaritimemuseum.org or call 508-775-1723.

Osterville Historical Museum

The museum has new exhibits for 2011: “The Tea Tradition from 1775-1914”: How taking tea went from an exotic to a daily ritual; and “The Séance that Made a Boat”: about creating the dimensions for the famous Crosby Cat Boat.

On July 30, celebrate the 30th anniversary of saving the renovated Cammett House with a dedication of a sundial in the Parker House gardens, 11 a.m.

Aug. 6 is Family Day at the museum. All events free, but pre-registration required. Visit www.OstervilleMuseum.org.

The Osterville Farmers Market is open every Friday through Sept. 31, located on the museum grounds.

The Osterville Historical Museum, 155 West Bay Road, is open beginning June 2, Thursday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. $5, kids free. More info: 508-428-5861.

Zion Union Heritage Museum

The Zion Union Heritage Museum, 276 North St. in Hyannis, features artwork and memorabilia by Cape Codders on the Cape’s African-American and Cape Verdean history. Mid-April through October, museum hours are Tuesday-Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.; closed Sunday. Admission is $5 for adults, $4 for seniors, $3 for ages 10 to 17, and free for younger children. 508-790-9466.

CAPEWIDE

Bourne Historical Society

The Bourne Historical Society, 30 Keene St., Buzzards Bay, is a nonprofit organization devoted to preserving the history of the Town of Bourne. BHS maintains the Aptucxet Trading Post Museum in Bourne Village, a restoration of Plimoth Colony’s first trading post. Hours are 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Mondays, and Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Admission is free.

The Cape Cod Military Museum is hosting a Cape Cod World War II display at the Historical Society, with hours Mon-Tues 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.; Weds 6:30-8:30 p.m. Groups by appointment.

The Captain Bangs Hallet House Museum, the Cape’s only furnished sea captain’s home, is located at 11 Strawberry Lane, off Rte. 6A, Yarmouthport, and houses the Historical Society of Old Yarmouth. Admission is $3 for adults and 50 cents for kids. Yarmouth residents are free. For information call 508-362-3021 or visit www.hsoy.org.

Chatham Historical Society

A special exhibit celebrating the life and work of artist Robert Verity Clem may be seen at the Atwood House Museum, co-sponsored by the Chatham Conservation Foundation.

Visit the experiential exhibit “Chatham to China: Acculturation, Encounter and Trade” at the Atwood House Museum, home of the Chatham Historical Society, 347 Stage Harbor Road.

Explore the travel and trading adventures of Chatham sea captains during the 1800s. Visitors can trade for silk or tea, and sell their goods back at old Boston’s India Wharf. $5, $3 students, free to under 12. For more information, call 508-364-0850.

Edward Gorey House

The Edward Gorey House, 8 Strawberry Lane, Yarmouthport, is featuring the exhibit “Artful Associations: Edward Gorey Illustrates Famous Authors,” containing original drawings, sketches and book cover mockups, celebrating the life and work of the acclaimed writer and artist. Hours are Thursday to Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sundays from noon to 4 p.m. 508-362-3909 or visit www.edwardgoreyhouse.org.

Family Nature Programs in July and Aug. at 1 p.m. (free with museum admission):

Monday: Sky’s the Limit;

Tuesday: Do You Dig It?

Wednesday: Spineless Wonders;

Thursday: Bats … or Snakes;

Friday: Do Whales Have Bellybuttons?

--Info on all programs at 508-896-3867, x133.

Evenings on the Bluff

Waquoit Bay’s National Estuarine Reserve continues its Tuesday Evenings on the Bluff series on July 26 at 6:30 p.m. with a performance by Henry Lappen, who will combine his love and knowledge of birds with artistry in maskmaking and performance. Not to be missed! Free program, bring chairs or beach blankets and a picnic dinner, and enjoy the beautiful view. Program indoors in case of rain. 508-539-4923.

It’s the real buzz

The beehives of the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History, Route 6A, Brewster, will be open to Museum visitors at noon on July 28, Aug. 2, Aug. 11, Aug. 16, Aug. 25 and Aug. 30 (weather permitting). Join a naturalist-guided tour and learn about the world of the honeybee. Protective headgear is provided. 508-896-3867.

Coastal Explorer Van lands at CCMNH

The Barnstable County 4-H Coastal Explorer van will be in the parking lot at the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Aug. 4. Take a look inside to see saltwater aquariums, marine life videos, interactive games, microscopes for viewing marine life and hands-on exhibits. Info at 508-896-3867 or www.ccmnh.org.

Days and nights at the Museum

The Cape Cod Museum of Natural History, Route 6A, Brewster, presents the Rainforest Reptile Show at 4:30 and 7 p.m. July 23. See live alligators, turtles, snakes and frogs from the rainforests of the world. $12, $8 children.

Also on July 23, CCMNH holds the annual Brewster Butterfly Count, led by Alison Robb. A daylong opportunity to count butterflies for the North American Butterfly Association. Meet at 9 a.m. at the museum. More information on taking part: 508-896-3867.

• Bayside Explorers joins Three Bays for outings with marine scientists along the bays’ shores, to discover what’s happening at the edge of our waters, with upcoming dates July 20 (9 a.m.), July 27 (3 p.m.), Aug. 3 (9 a.m.). Free event. For info on both programs, call 508-420-0780 or visit www.3bays.org.

Burgess Society events

The Thornton W. Burgess Society’s Green Briar Nature Center is located at 6 Discovery Hill Road, East Sandwich. A variety of events for children and adults are featured year-round at its Green Briar Nature Center, including jam making classes in the Green Briar Nature Kitchen.

• Special program: “On This Sandy Shore,” a close-up look at plants and animals inhabiting our beaches and dunes, 7 p.m. July 24 at the Nature Center. $6.

• Guided tours through the award-winning Wildflower Garden are offered each Tuesday at 10 a.m. through Aug. 30. $5, registration not required.

Hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Saturday; 1-4 p.m. Sunday. Admission is by donation. For more information and a complete schedule of programs, visit www.thorntonburgess.org or call 508-888-6870.

Nature at Highfield Hall

• Estate walks are held the first Sunday of each month at 1 p.m. Participants can join a trained docent for a ramble around the estate. $5.

• Alison Robb leads walkers through Beebe Woods at 10:30 a.m. on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of the month to search for seasonal plants and wildlife. $5. Highfield Hall is located at 56 Highfield Drive, Falmouth. 508-495-1878.

• Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary is located off Route 6 just past the Eastham/Wellfleet town line. Trails are open daily 8 a.m. to dusk. Walks, birding and tidal pool exploration, family cruises, canoe trips and more. Admission is $5 for adults, $3 for children. Call 508-349-2615.

• Skunknett River Sanctuary, Bumps River Road, Osterville, holds a variety of ongoing walks and programs. 508-362-7475 for info.

TALKS

At CCMNH

Award-winning photojournalist Ethan Daniels will speak on his book Under Cape Cod Waters, 7:30 p.m. July 28 at the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History, Route 6A, Brewster. Book signing follows. $7. 508-896-3867.

MBL Friday Evening Lectures

A series of free Friday lectures at the Marine Biological Laboratory’s Lillie Auditorium, 7 MBL St., Woods Hole, continue throughout the summer at 8 p.m. Upcoming:

Author Wendy Williams will speak on “Kraken: The Curious, Exciting and Slightly Disturbing Science of Squid,” and discuss the myths and truths surrounding this elusive creature, at 11 a.m. July 22 at Osterville Museum, 155 West Bay Road. For more information, call 508-428-5861.

Speaker Betsy Bray will share a presentation on her most recent trip to South America’s Patagonia and Cape Horn, 7 p.m. July 26 at the Brewster Ladies’ Library, 1822 Main St. Admission is free. More info at 508-896-3913.

Printmaking lecture

The Brewster Ladies’ Library, 1822 Main St., presents a special talk by Leslie Kramer, whose art is currently on display there, on printmaking techniques and how to distinguish an original from a reproduction, using examples from her personal collection, at 7 p.m. July 29. Free admission. 508-896-3913.

• “Glories of the Garden”: Roger Cook of This Old House speaks about his career on the program as well as about pragmatic solutions for landscape dilemmas, 7 p.m. July 24. Advance registration suggested. $15.

The Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute offers a series of public talks at 2 p.m. in the Exhibit Center, 15 School St. – July 26: “Imaging the Seafloor with Robotic Vehicles,” by oceanographic engineer Hanu Singh. Free events. 508-289-2985.

Tales of Cape Cod

The Tales of CC lecture series continues on Monday evenings at 7:30 p.m. at Old Colonial Courthouse, Route 6A, Barnstable Village –

• July 25: “Shipwrecks Around Cape Cod,” by photographer and author Bill Quinn.

• Aug. 1: “The Railroad on Cape Cod: Then & Now,” by Theodore Shrady.

• Aug. 8: “Weir Fishing Rules: Sustaining a Way of Life on the Water,” by the Eldredge fishing family of Chatham.

Turtle Whisperer

At Long Pasture Wildlife Sanctuary, 345 Bone Hill Road, Cummaquid, sanctuary director and herpetologist Ian Ives will give a talk on the turtles of Cape Cod, and show us living examples of rare species, 7:30 p.m. July 27.

Join Carol Carson for a discussion on “The Great White and the Basking Shark: A Case of Mistaken Identity,” 7:30 p.m. Aug. 3. $8, $6 kids. 508-362-7475 for more information.

• Summertime Goat Walks: Hike the trails at Long Pasture with resident dairy goats, at 10:30 and noon Tuesdays and Thursdays through Aug. 30. $6, $4 kids. To register or for information on all activities, call 508-362-7475; www.massaudubon.org.

Barnstable Land Trust

BLT hosts a roster of walks and talks for the winter.

The Barnstable Land Trust is a non-profit, community-based conservation organization offering information about preserving the open spaces on Cape Cod. Go to www.BLT.org or call 508-771-2585 for a schedule, information and directions on all walks or events.

Barnstable Village tours

Join the Barnstable Historical Society and Derek Bartlett on a stroll of the historic homes of Barnstable Village, and learn the natural history of Barnstable Harbor. Walks are each Wednesday at 2 p.m. $5, free to children under 8. For information call 508-362-2982.

Simple walks for seniors, kids

The Thornton W. Burgess Society holds gently-paced nature walks every Tuesday at 1 p.m. for seniors, led by naturalist Patricia Gonser. Walkers should meet at the Green Briar Nature Center, Route 6A in Sandwich to travel to other areas. $6 for society members, $8 for non-members.

Walks through the Green Briar Nature Center’s Shirley G. Cross Wildflower Garden are held Tuesday and Thursday mornings at 10:30 a.m. Cost is $3 for members and $5 for non-members.

Call Green Briar at 508-888-6870.

VOLUNTEERS

Environmental monitors needed

The Provincetown Center for Coastal Studies is seeking volunteers to participate in the Cape Cod Bay Environmental Monitoring Program, from June to Sept., checking arranged sites for possible invasive species. Also opportunities for weekly water samplers. For more information call 508-487-3622, ext. 104, or visit www.coastalstudies.org/.

Horizons for Homeless Children

Horizons is seeking volunteers to spend time with children living in domestic violence and family homeless shelters in Barnstable County, two hours a week. Six-month commitment. 508-510-3250, or visit southeast@horizonsforhomelesschildren.org for more information on this program.

Big Brothers Big Sisters

BBBS of the Cape & Islands is seeking adult volunteers to be Big Brothers and Big Sisters. Those interested in participating or getting the word out may call the organization at 508-771-5150, x 101, or the volunteer hotline at 877-933-BIGS.

Burgess Society

Volunteer opportunities galore are waiting at the Thornton W. Burgess Society in East Sandwich – a new docent program is now available for those with an eye for nature and an enjoyment of people. Call the Burgess Society office at 508-888-6870 for more information.

4-H needs help with youth programs

The Barnstable County 4-H Program needs adults to help as club leaders for 4-H clubs. Training, resource materials, curriculum and support are provided. For information or to volunteer, contact youth educator Judy Vollmer at 508-375-6696 or jvollmer@barnstablecounty.org.

Road to Recovery

The American Cancer Society is seeking volunteers from Cape Cod to drive local cancer patients to and from chemo and radiation appointments, especially those receiving treatment in Boston. Become a driver in the “Road to Recovery” program – call 800-227-2345 or visit www.cancer.org.

VNA volunteer programs

• The Visiting Nurse Association of Cape Cod Hospice is offering a volunteer training program for men and women who are interested in providing support to patients receiving end-of-life care, as well as support to caregivers.

• VNA Hospice of the Visiting Nurse Association of Cape Cod is seeking veterans for the Volunteers for Veterans program. Volunteers receive special training to help acknowledge and support veterans, and provide visits and respite to vets and their caregivers. For information on becoming a VNA volunteer, Call Gayle at 508-957-7709.

NE Society for Abandoned Animals

The New England Society for Abandoned Animals is seeking volunteers to support programs and activities at its no-kill Shelter and Education Center in Centerville. To sign up, visit www.nesaa.org for an application, or call 508-771-7800.

AIDS group needs you

The AIDS Support Group of Cape Cod, 428 South St., Hyannis, needs volunteers to assist in the office and food pantry. Call 508-778-1954 or visit www.asgcc.org.

Caregivers needed for local children

Cape Cod Child Development is looking for volunteers for its day-to-day programs located throughout the Cape and in Wareham. Call 800-974-8860.

Cape & Islands Veterans Outreach Center

Veterans and their families can find a wide range of support and services at the Cape & Islands Veterans Outreach Center in Hyannis, including counseling, a food pantry, employment and housing assistance, legal aid and more. These are available to veterans of all eras. Call 800-355-1591.